Apple Explored Acquiring AI Startup Thinking Machines Lab
In early 2025, tech giant Apple explored the possibility of acquiring Thinking Machines Lab, an AI startup with a mission to make AI systems more accessible and capable. The company, founded by Mira Murati, gained attention following her brief stint as OpenAI's interim CEO.
Murati's tenure at OpenAI was tumultuous. She briefly served as interim CEO after internal conflicts led to the removal of Sam Altman. However, she threatened to resign if Altman was not reinstated. Murati left OpenAI less than a year later, founding Thinking Machines Lab soon after. The startup aims to make AI systems more widely understood, customizable, and capable.
In 2025, Apple engaged in discussions with Murati regarding a potential acquisition of her AI startup. Talks began early in the year but did not progress significantly. Despite the acquisition not materializing, Thinking Machines Lab secured a significant seed funding round. The startup raised $2 billion, valuing it at $10 billion. It's unclear who led the discussions between Apple and Thinking Machines Lab, and there's no public confirmation of Murati's involvement with the AI startup.
While Apple's potential acquisition of Thinking Machines Lab did not come to fruition, the startup's significant seed funding round indicates its potential in the AI landscape. Mira Murati's past involvement with OpenAI and her vision for Thinking Machines Lab have drawn interest from tech giants like Apple.
